Playing from the Heart

Peter H. Reynolds' 'Playing from the Heart' tells the story of Raj, a young boy whose natural joy for playing the piano is gradually overshadowed by formal lessons and his father's expectations. As he grows, music becomes a burden, leading him to abandon it entirely. However, when his father becomes ill, Raj is called upon to play once more, prompting a poignant rediscovery of his true musical spirit. This gentle picture book, suitable for ages 4-11, explores themes of creativity, parental pressure, the importance of intrinsic motivation, and the enduring bond between a father and son. It's a wonderful conversation starter about finding joy in personal expression.

"When a young boy begins to play on his family's piano, reveling in the fun of plunking the keys, his father signs him up for lessons so that he can learn to play properly. With his father's encouragement, Raj learns notes, then scales, then songs, and finally classical pieces that his father can recognize and be proud of. But the more Raj practices and the more skilled he becomes, the less he enjoys playing, until he grows up and stops playing altogether. But when his father becomes ill and asks Raj to play for him, will Raj remember how to play from the heart?"--Provided by publisher.